Urgent Call for Reform: Addressing the Regional Crisis
ACHRS Researcher Mara Beteagu Attends the Summit of the Future at the UN Headquarters in New York
I had the privilege of representing ACHRS on the closing day of the Summit of the Future at the UN Headquarters. On the first day of the summit, the Pact for the Future, including the Global Digital Compact and Declaration on Future Generations, was adopted. For the closing day, the topic on the plenary’s agenda was the reformation of the UN system and the international financial architecture.
In our center’s recent discussions, one topic stood out: the urgent need for reforming UN institutions, particularly the Security Council. Diplomats and heads of state highlighted its failures in maintaining peace, with Palestine and Lebanon taking center stage in these conversations. Various proposals emerged, including expanding membership, limiting or eliminating veto power, suspending voting rights for severe violations, and enhancing representation for specific regions.
While numerous delegations addressed the situation in Palestine, the depth of engagement often felt insufficient given the severity of the crisis. Key takeaways from the plenary session included:
- Double Standards: The Republic of Indonesia emphasized the application of double standards in addressing Palestine.
- Combatting Polarization: Türkiye called for effective strategies to combat Islamophobia and polarization.
- Ending Colonial Practices: The Syrian Arab Republic urged an end to Western colonial practices in the Middle East.
- Reassessing Membership: The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela proposed a reevaluation of Palestine’s membership status.
- Humanitarian Concerns: Concerns were raised about accusations against UNRWA staff, setting a dangerous precedent.
- International Humanitarian Law: The International Committee of the Red Cross stressed the need to respect International Humanitarian Law and facilitate humanitarian aid.
Jordan’s representative provided a crucial balance by highlighting global development amidst the humanitarian crisis in Palestine. They underscored the importance of international law and justice, advocating for recognition of the State of Palestine based on 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
The situation in Lebanon was only briefly touched upon, as Israel’s attacks had escalated just days prior. The urgency of the moment was palpable; as world leaders discussed potential solutions, my phone buzzed with updates on the rising death toll in Lebanon. France’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Jean-Noël Barrot, called for an emergency UN Security Council meeting on September 25, but unfortunately, no ceasefire resolution was proposed.
In conclusion, the Arab Center for Human Rights Studies (ACHRS) welcomes the adoption of the Pact for the Future, hoping for its effective implementation. However, after reflecting on the plenary session and ongoing international developments, we must stress the urgent need for greater attention and decisive action in the Middle East and North Africa. A better future is only possible if it encompasses everyone.
